New Jason Segel rom-com is happily married to the same-old, same-old

By Devin D. O’Leary

Romantic comedies about weddings are the cinematic equivalent of reality shows about wedding planners. They probably reach the exact same audience and involve about the same amount of creative effort. (“Eh, people watch those things. Let’s just make another one of those.”) The Five-Year Engagement has the benefit of a solid cast and a credible bunch of people behind the camera. But it’s still a lazy cut-and-paste job, combining elements of every nuptial-based rom-com since Four Weddings and a Funeral.

1-2-3-4 ... What are we fighting for?

By Devin D. O’Leary

A mere two weeks after its debut, HBO’s ballsy, awkward and uncomfortably honest comedy “Girls” has become a surprising lightning rod for controversy. Depending upon which website you visit, the show is either a refreshingly feminist take on coming-of-age sitcoms or a distressingly antifeminist take on the same.

Pride in Your Work

This year, Albuquerque Pride is adding a new component—a cinematic one. The newly minted PrideFilm Festival is designed to promote the film industry and Albuquerque’s LGBT community at the same time. PrideFilm is on the hunt for folks who are eager to get behind the camera. You’ll have the entire month of May to create a five-minute masterpiece under the guidance of professional mentors from IATSE 480. Films will screen during the PrideFilm Festival on June 30. Entry fee is $50, and that includes one ticket to Albuquerque PrideFest. It also entitles you to a 50 percent discount on rental equipment at Serious Grippage. Details are still emerging, but if you’re interested in jumping on board, be sure and keep track on Facebook.